Regular Army/NavyForrest to Crosbie, 1780

Flushing Long Island 3d of March 1780

I do not know what apology to make for the liberty I am about to take, in requesting the favor of your Interest, to have me appointed to a Vacant Company, in Colonel Fanning's Corps, as I have not the most distant prospect of promotion in the 38th, the repeated misfortunes my Father has met with since the commencement of this Rebellion, has put it out of his power to purchase for me, or even assist me further in my present situation which you must know is very distressing, having nothing but my pay to answer every necessary purpose, your interesting your self in my behalf, will lay me under the most lasting obligation to you, and will ever remember it with the greatest gratitude